MIT Neutralizes PKK/YPG Responsible for Planning Suicide Bomb Attack in Turkey
The National Intelligence Organization (MİT) of Turkey successfully neutralized Hezal Belge, a key figure responsible for planning a suicide bomb attack in Turkey, affiliated with the terrorist organizations PKK/YPG. The operation took place in the Amude region of Syria.
Hunted in the Gray Category
According to security sources, MİT, through its intelligence operations, identified Hezal Belge, also known by the code name “Jinda Gundikramo,” as a terrorist operating in the gray category of the “Wanted for Terrorism” list. Belge, the alleged leader of PKK/YPG in the Amude region, was found to be planning a suicide bombing in Turkey.
Hezal Belge had attempted multiple attacks in Turkey, but due to the proactive measures taken by Turkish security forces, these attempts were postponed to a later date. Finally, during a pinpoint operation in Amude, the terrorist Belge was rendered ineffective. It was also discovered that Belge was actively recruiting individuals in Syria to join the terrorist organization.
Belge joined the rural ranks of the terrorist organization in 2004 and served as a supposed leader of PKK/KCK in northern Iraq for many years. After being injured in a conflict in Syria in 2021, Belge underwent treatment in the city of Sulaymaniyah in Iraq before returning to Syria. Most recently, Belge was operating as the alleged leader of PKK/YPG in Amude.
Subheadings:
The Rise of PKK/YPG in Syria
Counterterrorism Efforts by Turkey
International Response to PKK/YPG
The Rise of PKK/YPG in Syria
The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and its Syrian affiliate, the People’s Protection Units (YPG), have been active in the Syrian conflict, seeking to establish autonomous Kurdish regions in northern Syria. The YPG, in particular, has been a key player in the fight against the Islamic State (IS) in Syria, receiving support from the United States in the form of weapons and training.
However, Turkey views the YPG as an extension of the PKK, a designated terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union. Turkey has consistently expressed concerns about the YPG’s presence near its border and its alleged links to the PKK.
Counterterrorism Efforts by Turkey
Turkey has been actively engaged in counterterrorism efforts against the PKK and its affiliates, including the YPG, both domestically and internationally. The country has conducted numerous military operations in northern Iraq and Syria to target PKK/YPG militants and prevent cross-border attacks.
In addition to military operations, Turkey has also focused on intelligence-sharing and cooperation with other countries to combat terrorism. The successful neutralization of Hezal Belge by MİT is a testament to Turkey’s commitment to preventing terrorist attacks on its soil.
International Response to PKK/YPG
The international community has been divided in its response to the PKK/YPG issue. While some countries, such as the United States, have supported the YPG as a key ally in the fight against IS, others, including Turkey, have raised concerns about the group’s links to the PKK and its impact on regional stability.
Turkey has called on its allies to recognize the PKK/YPG as terrorist organizations and to cut off support to them. The European Union has also expressed concerns about the PKK/YPG’s activities in Syria and their potential implications for regional security.
Overall, the neutralization of Hezal Belge by MİT highlights the ongoing challenge of terrorism in the region and the importance of international cooperation in addressing this threat. Turkey remains committed to countering the PKK/YPG and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
